Publicity and appearances

Athena Award article in North Scott Press, March 2009

North Scott Press article, Feb. 20, 2008

The Observer article, Feb. 16, 2008

Artwork used for Blue Christmas Hop! promotional posters and materials, The District of Rock Island, 2006

Quad City Times article, Dec. 3, 2006 (portion excerpted below)

"The Creators" segment, WQPT Public Television, 2005

"Art with Mr. I" segment, educational video with Ralph Iaccarino, 2005

Quad City Times article, May 12, 2005

Paula Sands Live TV guest spots, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2010

Des Moines Register article on Iowa Arts Council award, 2012 (below)

Drought? What drought? Ag artwork tells different story

10:39 AM, Aug 15, 2012 | by Michael Morain |

If Grant Wood were still around, he would have gotten a run for his money for the “Celebration of Iowa: Agriculture Art Award.” The new contest attracted 75 entries, from adults and kids, which highlight the state’s natural beauty and farm heritage.

The winners were announced Tuesday at the State Fair. Larry Mendenhall of Altoona took top honors in the adult division, and 17-year-old Erika Matsuyama of Ankeny won among the youth. Winners in each division won $1,250 for first place, $750 for second and $500 for third.

The contest was organized by the state Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Department of Cultural Affairs, with prizes sponsored by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.

So that’s the official stuff. Here’s what you really want to see:

First place, adult division: Larry Mendenhall of Altoona